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Private 16 Nights / 17 Days Best Price Guarantee

17 Days South India Temple Tour with Kerala

RouteChennai to Alleppey10 Stops · Road
ChennaiKanchipuramMahabalipuramPondicherry+5Alleppey

Duration

16 Nights / 17 Days

Journey Style

Private

Destinations

10 Stops

Route Type

Road

Travel Notes

3 Essential

Tailor-Made

100% Flexible

The Journey Narrative

Chennai to Alleppey

The 17 Days South India Temple Tour with Kerala is a comprehensive exploration of the rich spiritual heritage and natural beauty of southern India. This journey takes you through the heart of Tamil Nadu's temple towns and the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, offering a blend of spirituality, culture, and nature.

Your adventure begins in Chennai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Here, you'll visit the historic Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the vibrant Marina Beach, experiencing the lively spirit of this bustling city.

Travel to Kanchipuram, known as the city of a thousand temples. Explore the intricately designed Kailasanathar Temple and the ancient Ekambareswarar Temple, both rich in history and architectural brilliance.

Next, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram, famous for its rock-cut temples and sculptures. Discover the Shore Temple and the awe-inspiring Pancha Rathas and Arjuna's Penance, marveling at the artistry of the Pallava dynasty.

In Pondicherry, experience the unique blend of French colonial influence and traditional Tamil culture. Stroll through the charming French Quarter, visit the serene Aurobindo Ashram, and relax at the peaceful Promenade Beach.

Continue to Chidambaram, home to the famous Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form. This ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture.

In Tanjore, visit the iconic Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive examples of Chola architecture. Explore the Tanjore Palace and Art Gallery, which houses a rich collection of Chola bronzes and paintings.

Journey to Trichy to see the magnificent Rockfort Temple and the sprawling Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India.

Your pilgrimage continues in Madurai, where you'll visit the grand Meenakshi Amman Temple, renowned for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings. Experience the vibrant culture of Madurai, known as the "Athens of the East."

In Rameshwaram, explore the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's long corridors and ornate pillars are a sight to behold.

At Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, witness the confluence of the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal. Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and enjoy a serene sunset at Kanyakumari Beach.

Your journey then takes you to Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Here, visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and explore the beautiful Napier Museum and Kuthiramalika Palace.

In Kerala, experience the tranquil beauty of the Alleppey backwaters with a traditional houseboat cruise. Drift through the serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque villages.

Conclude your tour in Cochin, where you'll explore the historic Fort Kochi with its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and vibrant cultural heritage. Visit the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church before your journey ends.

This 17-day tour offers a deep dive into the spiritual heart of South India, combined with the natural tranquility of Kerala, providing a memorable and enriching experience.

Trip Specifications

Destinations Covered

Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, Kovalam, Alleppey

Best For

Religious, Beach, Culture, Adventure

Route Type

Road

Important Notes

3 Essential

Route Map

Chennai to Alleppey

Road across India, ordered from the itinerary.

Itinerary based

Route sequence

10 Stops · Road

10 pins
  1. 1

    Chennai

    India · Road

  2. 2

    Kanchipuram

    India · Sightseeing · Road

  3. 3

    Mahabalipuram

    India · Road

  4. 4

    Pondicherry

    India · Road

  5. 5

    Tanjore

    India · Road

  6. 6

    Madurai

    India · Road

  7. 7

    Rameshwaram

    India · Road

  8. 8

    Kanyakumari

    India · Road

  9. 9

    Kovalam

    India · Road

  10. 10

    Alleppey

    India · Road

Day by Day Experience

Detailed itinerary

1

Meeting on arrival at Chennai Airport and transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Clarity & Expectations

What's included & excluded

Included in your package

  • Accommodation: 15 nights in carefully selected 3 star hotels/resorts & 1 night Deluxe Houseboat.
  • Meals: Daily breakfast at all hotels; all meals included during the houseboat stay in Alleppey.
  • Transportation: All airport transfers, sightseeing, and intercity travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Guided Tours: English-speaking local guides for all sightseeing tours.
  • Air-conditioned appropriate car with driver and all related expenses
  • Activities: Houseboat cruise in Alleppey, cultural experiences in Pondicherry and Cochin.
  • Taxes: All necessary taxes for the tour.

Not included / Extra

  • International Airfare: Flights to and from India.
  • Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance covering health, accident, and evacuation.
  • Meals: Lunches and dinners (unless specified) and any meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, tips, and souvenirs.
  • Optional Activities: Any additional activities, excursions, or optional tours not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Visa Fees: Indian visa fees or other travel documents.
  • Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses, including medicines and consultations.
  • Monument Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to all temples, monuments, and attractions mentioned in the itinerary
Important Info

Before you travel

EssentialTravel Documents & Visa

Identity documents and permits

  • Carry a valid government photo ID for hotels, transport, monuments, and regional permit checks.
  • Protected, border, wildlife, or pilgrimage zones may require additional details in advance.
EssentialTransport & Transfers

Route pacing and transfer timing

  • Road, rail, ferry, and flight timings can change with weather, traffic, monument closures, border controls, and local events.
  • Keep the first and last day flexible around arrival, departure, hotel check-in, and long-distance transfers.
RecommendedWeather & Packing

Pack for the route, not only the season

  • Pack light breathable clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, swimwear where relevant, and footwear that can handle wet surfaces.
  • Coastal humidity, rain showers, and ferry/sea conditions can affect day plans.
RecommendedMeals & Dietary Needs

Meal plan and dietary requests

  • Meal inclusions depend on the selected hotel category and package plan.
  • Vegetarian, Jain, vegan, allergy-aware, or early breakfast requests should be shared before confirmation.
RecommendedLocal Customs

Respectful visits to sacred places

  • Dress modestly for temples, monasteries, ghats, and pilgrimage sites.
  • Shoes, leather items, photography, mobile phones, or bags may be restricted at specific sites.
RecommendedInsurance

Travel insurance

  • Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for medical needs, trip interruption, baggage issues, and cancellation events.
  • Adventure, trekking, high-altitude, cruise, ferry, or safari activities may need specific coverage.
EssentialEmergency Support

On-tour contact and local assistance

  • Final vouchers should include local contact numbers, hotel details, driver or guide contacts where applicable, and emergency support instructions.
  • Share any mobility, medical, dietary, or special-assistance requirements before travel.
Trip Tags

How this journey is classified

Need to Know

Frequently asked questions

Yes. The 16 Nights / 17 Days Days plan can be adjusted for travel dates, hotel category, pace, rooming, private transfers, and extra nights while keeping the core route through Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Madurai, Rameshwaram.